Dean Wade available for Game 3

Wade is set for a momentous return.

Dean Wade has been cleared to play in Game 3 of the Cleveland Cavaliers’ second round series with the Boston Celtics. Wade has been out with a knee strain since March 10.

The return of one of Cleveland’s best wing defenders couldn’t come at a better time. Matched across from the Cavaliers are potent offensive wings such as Jayson Tatum, Jaylen Brown and Derrick White. Adding another capable defender to hold the fort, even if only for a moment, will be mightily helpful.

Wade was having a career-best season before his knee injury. His 6’9” frame and athleticism made him a borderline elite ball-stopper on the perimeter while a career-high 39% three-point clip put Wade in serious “3-and-D” conversations.

The Celtics are all too familiar with Wade’s capabilities. His inferno performance where he scored 20 points in the fourth quarter to lead a comeback charge is burned into the memory of every Boston sports fan.

It’s important to note how much of an outlier that game was. Wade’s previous career-high was 22 points in an entire game, let alone scoring 20 in a quarter. However, Wade has been a productive role player all season long. His value as a floor spacer in the frontcourt can not be overstated when matched with his competence on defense. At his best, Wade was quietly becoming one of the most valuable role players in the league.

For this particular matchup, Wade is more valuable than ever. The Celtics are a lethal offensive team that looks to bombard opponents from the perimeter. Wade is a player who, theoretically, can slow them down.